Digital filmmaking. Video Production. Videography. All the same in my eyes. Now, I've talked to a lot of different people lately who think they need to get the glossy pamphlets, stacks of business cards, a website, a Facebook page, a Twitter account, an Instagram account, and email newsletter service like MailChimp, and a business license and an EIN from the IRS just to get started with business. If you're into film and videography, do you think you want all of this nonsense just to start a video production business?

And of course, you don't need so much as 3 credit hours, let alone a whole degree in business.

At its core, business is just about meeting a need and serving people.

This is really simple gang: when you are reaching out to clients (new ones - aka "cold" convo's - or you're maintaining ole relationships, that is anything that's not cold), be sure to put in the time to do a few easy steps in bridging the gaps.

If your sole job as a movie director is to inspire, communicate, and lead, then that middle part definitely starts here, in the weeds of video production - long before you ever yell action on a set with 100's of crew and cast members.

My fellow microbudget filmmaker, if you do any kind of video production in between projects, and if you find yourself scrambling to get paid, here's a tool I like and highly recommend. You can even get paid right away, as in today. It's quick for your client, and it's easy for you.

So easy in fact, I had to write a quick take on it to disarm any mental barriers to trying yet another new gizmo on the web.

Ready?

Paypal.me.

Don't already have a Paypal account? Get one.

Client doesn't have an account? They can easily create one, en route to paying you. Create your link to get paid and share that turkey.

At the end of the post, I'll walk you through how to get paid with Paypal, even if your client doesn't have a Paypal account (and/or refuses to get one).

Today, we’re going to reflect on all the wild and wonderful things our prospects and clients do that just drive us bonkers. So, if you’re new to video production, I recommend starting here and here. Then read this post so you can see the warning signs on the road and learn how to react. You can’t always control how other people will treat you, but you sure can control how you treat others. Remember the golden rule here, Bubs, and go serve your video production prospects/clients right now with a big ole smile!

Bonus: Stick around after the show for a free performance by Limozeeeen! Actually, I’ve got a guide for you that will walk you through, A-Z, everything you need to start your own video business from scratch. Because clients that drive you bananas are just the tip of the iceberg; you’ll deal with non-profits who want to undercut your services, payment processors who want their cut, and the interminable question: what do I charge my clients? All this and more in the bonus section.